What Role Might Genes Play?
Multiple sclerosis is not hereditary. There is evidence, however, that having a parent or sibling (also called a first-degree relative) with Multiple Sclerosis substantially increases the probability of developing the disease. Studies indicate higher prevalence of Multiple Sclerosis among certain racial groups (e.g., Northern Europeans) and almost no Multiple Sclerosis among other groups (e.g., Eskimos). There are theories that Multiple Sclerosis develops within a person who is born with a genetic predisposition to the disease or with a genetic predisposition to react to some external, environmental agent. The National Multiple Sclerosis web site has more information on the role of genetics in Multiple Sclerosis at www.nationalmssociety.org/sourcebook-genetics.asp.
